Retailers Ask CA Gov to Recognize DCs as Essential

Distribution Centers Supply Nation With Essential Goods

Today RILA and NRF sent a letter to California Governor Newsom urging him to update yesterday’s order closing non-essential businesses, and to make clear the importance of distribution centers to the nation’s economy.
 
The letter notes the important role that California’s ports and distribution centers play, not just in California, but in supplying the entire nation with essential goods.
 
"It is crucial that all distribution centers remain open. Retailers, grocers and restaurants cannot resupply without a functioning supply chain. That means ports and distribution hubs that are open for business. Additionally, distribution centers have the capability to independently serve consumers through the fulfillment of online orders. Distribution centers are essential to retailers’ ability to serve the public during this global pandemic, and their closure would result in negative consequences throughout the supply chain and economy.
 
"Additionally, it is important to note that many stores also allow for contact-less, curbside pick-up. Similar to allowing restaurants who can facilitate take-out and delivery to remain open, we ask that you allow stores that provide this type of service to remain open for the purpose of fulfilling online, mobile device or telephone orders.
 
"Finally, we respectfully request that your Administration remain open to adding more categories to the specified “essential retail businesses” list as conditions continue to change."
 
The full letter can be found here.
###
 

RILA is the US trade association for leading retailers. We convene decision-makers, advocate for the industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate.

RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Tags
  • Public Policy
  • Supply Chain
  • Building Communities
  • Investing in People
  • Leading in the Community
  • Retail Impact
  • Thank You Retail Workers
  • Retail Works for All of Us

Stay in the know

Subscribe to our newsletter